Elephant Parts

Synopsis

Elephant Parts is a groundbreaking 1981 video album by Michael Nesmith, blending comedy sketches, music videos, and innovative visual effects into a unique entertainment experience. This eclectic collection offers a satirical look at pop culture, television, and music, showcasing Nesmith's creativity as a performer and director. The project features a range of humorous skits, alongside catchy songs performed by Nesmith and his band, creating an engaging mix of genres and styles. Pioneering the format of the music video long before the MTV era, Elephant Parts stands as a creative milestone in blending multimedia storytelling with musical artistry.

Cast

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  Michael Nesmith

• Bill Martin

• Lark Geib

• Robert Ackerman

• Katherine McDaniel

• Paddy Morrissey

Reviews

Elephant Parts holds a notable place in pop culture history, often lauded for its innovation and eclectic style. On IMDb, it enjoys a respectable 7.7/10 rating, with users highlighting Michael Nesmith’s inventive approach and the refreshing blend of sketch comedy and music. Critics from various reviews commend the project for its ahead-of-its-time concept and its influence on the development of music videos as an art form. However, some viewers find the humor and pacing somewhat uneven by today’s standards, reflecting its experimental nature and the era it was produced in. On Rotten Tomatoes, while it does not have a critic score, audience feedback indicates appreciation for its creativity but notes that it may appeal more to fans of Nesmith or those interested in music history rather than casual viewers. Overall, Elephant Parts is celebrated for its originality, with quotes such as “a pioneering work that helped shape the music video genre” appearing in retrospective assessments. It remains a cult favorite for those intrigued by early multimedia experiments and Michael Nesmith’s multifaceted talent.